703-324-4600
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Cristin Bratt,
Communications Director
Fairfax County’s Department of Neighborhood and Community Servicesinvites nonprofit safety net organizations to apply for $4 million infood distribution grants intended to aid the community in recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. Funded through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), thisthird investment aims toensure our local food system remains strong and sustainable.Funding is for direct food…
Fairfax County Neighborhood and Community Services is holding several Open Hire events in June.The events are hiring for multiple positions in recreation, before- and after-school care, and therapeutic recreation.
Tuesday, June 6, 2023 (5 - 7 p.m.)
Virginia Gov.Glenn Youngkin has proclaimed May 2023 as Early Intervention Month in Virginia.Fairfax County NCS is proud to be the home for the Infant & Toddler Connection of Fairfax-Falls Church. Across Virginia, 40 local systemsprovide early intervention,…
May is Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month, and Fairfax County Neighborhood Services is proud to celebrate with two events on May 20.
James Lee Community Center in Falls Church will holdthe Asian American & Pacific Islander Heritage Festival on…
Fairfax County Neighborhood and Community Services will be holding several Open Hire events in May.
Please visit on the the below events to apply and interview on the spot for various positions. Qualified applicants may fill positions at other locations. Please bring multiple copies of your resume to the event and click the below dates for more information.
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National Prevention Week(May 7-13, 2023) is a national public education platform bringing together communities and organizations to raise awareness about the importance of substance misuse prevention and positive mental health.
This week, the Department of Neighborhood and Community…
May is National Older Americans month.Established in 1963 and led by the Administration for Community Living (ACL), OAM is a time to acknowledge the contributions and achievements of older Americans, highlight important trends, and strengthen thecommitment to honoring our older citizens.
This year’s theme, Aging Unbound, offers an opportunity to explore a wide range of aging…
Registration for NCS' 2023 Therapeutic Recreation Summer Camp opens on Wednesday, April 19.
This is a wonderful opportunity for children and young adults with disabilities ages 5-22 to be involved in up to three weeks of a safe and fun summer program. The summer will be packed with special events, art activities, sensory play, games, sports, outdoor play, music activities and…
Fairfax County’s Trauma-Informed Spaces Grant Program invites community-based organizations that have experienced a negative impact as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic to apply for a new round of grants funded through the federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).
Because pandemic impacts so often resulted in CBOs prioritizing spending on direct services and staffing, and because the…
As the COVID-19 pandemic wanes, Fairfax County Neighborhood and Community Services'Infant & Toddler Connectionis responding tothe increase in request for screenings and services for families with young children with behaviors that suggest autism or other developmental delays.
ITC provides…
April is World Autism Month, so it is the perfect time for NCS’ Therapeutic Recreation Services to return to a popular in-person, freeprogram for individuals with disabilities and their families.
FANtastic Times is a free program for persons 2 to 22 years old and their families. Due to COVID-19, this program – which offers monthly planned activities both in NCS facilities and out in…
NCS is partnering with the Fairfax County Park Authority to offer affordablesummer camps to families with a household income of less than $132,500.Eligible families will pay reduced rates for children to participate in popular Park Authority summer camps offered at Sully Community Center.Camps are open to children ages 5-12 of all abilities.
Camps are…
March is Developmental Disabilities Inclusion Month in Fairfax County. At Neighborhood and Community Services, our mission is to partner with communities, families and individuals to provide opportunities to access a continuum of resources that promote equity and create positive outcomes for people of all ages and abilities.
Here is a spotlight on some of…
It’s spring! For gardeners, that means a new chance for all things growing.
The Fairfax County Master Gardeners programis availableto help troubleshoot plant issues, guide plant selection, conduct soil tests and help address pest problems.
Here’s how to access their free services:
Contact the Master Gardener Help Desk, Monday through…
Fairfax County Neighborhood and Community Services is holding an Open Hire event on Saturday, March 25, 10 a.m. - noon at the Pennino Building, Room 734, 12011 Government Center Pkwy, Fairfax, VA 22035.
Apply and interview on the spot for different positions. Qualified applicants may fill positions at other locations. Please bring multiple copies of your resume to the…
Fairfax County Neighborhood and Community Services is holding an Open Hire event on Saturday, April 22, 10 a.m. - noon at the Pennino Building, Room 206A, 12011 Government Center Pkwy, Fairfax, VA 22035.
Apply and interview on the spot for different positions. Qualified applicants may fill positions at other locations. Please bring multiple copies of your resume to the…
Fairfax County Neighborhood and Community Services is holding an Open Hire event on Saturday, March 25, 10 a.m. - noon at the Pennino Building, Room 734, 12011 Government Center Pkwy, Fairfax, VA 22035.
Apply and interview on the spot for different positions. Qualified applicants may fill positions at other locations. Please bring multiple copies of your resume to the…
March 12 – 18 is National Child and Adult Care Food Program Week. Fairfax County Neighborhood and Community Services is proud to be a part of the USDA program that helps provide high-quality food and snacks in licensed Fairfax County in-home child care programs.
CACFP Week is a national educational and information campaign by the CACFP Sponsors…
NCS will holdfour open hire events in South County: March 23 and 25 and April 13 and 15 at the GerryHyland Government Center – Room 505, 8350 Richmond Hwy., Alexandria, VA 22309.
Event details:
Thursday, March 23, 5 - 7 p.m. Saturday, March 25, 10 a.m. - noon Thursday, April 13, 5 - 7 p.m. Saturday, April 15, 10 a.m. - noonApply and interview on the spot…
The awards program, founded in 2001, honors county youth, coaches and parents in each magisterial district for extraordinary service in pursuing victory with honor on and off the field of competition. Instituted by the Fairfax County Athletic Council, this program aims to support the tradition of amateur athletics in cultivating teamwork, leadership, good sportsmanship and…
Fairfax County's Department of Neighborhood and Community Serviceslaunched a new webpage celebrating the accomplishments and impact of women who have provided the inspiration, leadership or vision that contributed to NCS and the community it serves.
In 1987, Congress declared March as National Women's History Month in perpetuity. A special Presidential Proclamation honoring the…
On Thursday, March 9, 2023, staff from the Fairfax County Department of Neighborhood and Community Services joined county leaders to break ground on the new Franconia Governmental Center and Kingstowne Regional Library. Located at 7130 Silver Lake Boulevard in Alexandria, the…
On Saturday, March 4, 2023, county leaders, the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Washingtonand community members gathered to celebratethe grand opening of the newAnnandale Community Centerat the Heritage Shopping Plaza.
The 2,100-square-foot center…
Fairfax County’s Department of Neighborhood and Community Services has introduced 3D printers as an educational tool at all School Age Child Care (SACC) and Teen Technology Centers in the county. Makerbot Sketch 3D printers were installed at 144 SACC centers in February 2023. In addition, all 13…
The Fairfax County Department of Neighborhood and Community Services is holding two Open Hire events on Tuesday, March 14, 5 – 7 p.m.
Locations:
Pennino Building, Room 206, 12011 Government Center Parkway, Fairfax, VA, 20035 Herndon Neighborhood Resource Center, 1086 Elden Street, Herndon, VA, 20170Apply and interview on the spot for multiple positions.…
On Monday, February 27, 2023, Fairfax County leaders, community members and relatives of the late James and Marguerite Mott gathered at Mott Community Center in Fairfaxto celebrate and remember the impact that the Motts had on Fairfax County.The familypresented a collection offramed articles and artifacts honoring James and Marguerite Mottand their contributions to civil…
On Tuesday, Feb. 21, 2023, the registration system for School Age Child Care experienced a system failure following the opening of SACC summer program registration (Camp Fairfax). Staff responded by immediately pausing all summer registrations. Staff continues to work diligently…
Registration for 2023 – 2024 Fairfax County School Age Child Care (SACC) will begin on March 9. Registration will open on a rolling basis in alphabetical order by school.Theschedule is as follows:
Beginning Thursday, March 9: Enrollment for schools beginning with letters A - E (Aldrin – Eagle View) Beginning Tuesday, March 14: Enrollment for schools…
Registration for 2023 Camp Fairfax begins on Tuesday, February 21, 2023, at 8 a.m. The summer day camp is open to rising first through seventh graders living in Fairfax County or the City of Fairfax.
Camp Fairfax gives campers the opportunity to explore interests in performing…
Don’t miss any of the fun at Fairfax County Spring Break Camps Monday, April 3 – Friday, April 7. Fairfax County Neighborhood and Community Services is pleased to offer camp programs for students ages 5 to 18 through programs at School Age Child Care (SACC) centers, community centers and teen centers throughout Fairfax County. Registration is ongoing for these supervised recreation and learning…
The Fairfax County Department of Neighborhood and Community Services is holding an Open Hire event on Saturday, February 25, 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
The event is at thePennino Building - Room 734, (12011 Government Center Parkway, Fairfax, VA 22035).Apply and interview on the spot for different positions. Qualified applicants may fill positions at other locations.Please…
The Fairfax County Department of Neighborhood & Community Services is hosting an Open Hire event on Tuesday, February 7, 2023, from5 - 7 p.m. at the Pennino Building, Room 734 (12011 Government Center Parkway, Fairfax, VA 22035). Interested candidates should bring copies of their resume.
Qualified applicants may fill the following part-time positions at locations throughout…
Explore Black history in Fairfax County and celebrate black perseverance and resiliency.
February 17, 2023, 6:30 - 8 p.m.
Refreshments and resource tables begin at 5:30 p.m.
Fairfax County Government Center, 12000 Government Center Parkway, Fairfax, VA 22035
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The buses are fueled and ready to roll as Stuff the Bus—the county’s post-holiday food drive, now in its 12th year—hits the road in the fight against hunger in Fairfax County.
Beginning on January 14 and continuing weekly through February 18, Fastran buses will visit…
The Fairfax County Department of Neighborhood & Community Services is hosting two Open Hire Events in December:
Thursday, December 15, 5 - 7 p.m. at the Pennino Building, Room 206 (12011 Government Center Parkway, Fairfax, VA 22035) Monday, December 19, 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. at Cathy Hudgins Community Center (12125 Pinecrest Road, Reston, VA…
The community is invited to provide feedback on the Consolidated Community Funding Pool (CCFP) to help identify targeted community needs categories. Input will be collected via a survey that will remain open through January 3, 2023. The CCFP is a competitive funding process for human services…
Now in its fourth year, the annual Fairfax County Senior Centers’ Winter Warming Service Project collects new or handmade hats, gloves, mittens and scarves for adults, children and infants in Fairfax County. Donated items are given to local nonprofit organizations including Cornerstones, ShelterHouse and HumanKind Foster Care. These community partners distribute the items to the communities…
The Fairfax County Department of Neighborhood and Community Services has added a fourth Community Engagement Forum regarding new community space in Annandale. The 1,800-square-foot space is located in the Heritage Mall Shopping Plaza and will house the Boys & Girls Club. Partners and community members…
This Thanksgiving, join the Fairfax County Department of Neighborhood and Community Services for special events at our community centers located throughout Fairfax County. Mark your calendars for these Thanksgiving meals and other events taking place in November:
Annual Thanksgiving Potluck at ...
This Halloween, join the Fairfax County Department of Neighborhood and Community Services for special events at our community centers located throughout Fairfax County. Mark your calendars for these spook-tacular events taking place at the end of October:
Trunk or Treat at ...
On Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022, Fairfax County leaders joined community members to celebrate the opening of the new Lorton Community Center & Library. More than 1,400 people attended a community celebration that included a…
The Fairfax County Department of Neighborhood and Community Services is highlighting the importance of our afterschool programs with Lights On Afterschool events at four of our Community Centers.
The Afterschool Alliance organizes Lights On…
The Fairfax County Department of Neighborhood and Community Services is hosting a series of Community Engagement Forums regarding the upcoming community space at Heritage Center in Annandale. The 1,800-square-foot space is located in a retail shopping plaza and will…
The new Lorton Community Center opened its doors Oct. 10, 2022, becoming Fairfax County’s 12th community center. The center serves as the new home for the Lorton Senior Center, which formerly operated in leased space, as…
On Sept. 1, 2022, Fairfax County proclaimed September as Hunger Action Month, a time to stand against hunger. The proclamation was signed by Fairfax County Board of Supervisors Chairman Jeffrey McKay, Mason District Supervisor Penelope Gross, Providence District Supervisor Dalia Palchik, and Sully District Supervisor Kathy Smith.
Kathy Smith read…
During National Preparedness Month, the Fairfax County Department of Neighborhood & Community Services is reminding Fairfax County residents and child care programs about the importance of preparing for disasters and emergencies.
In 2004, the Federal Emergency Management Agency launched National…
On Saturday, Sept. 17, members of the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, the Department of Neighborhood and Community Services and community leaders celebrated the opening of the new Sully Community Center during a ribbon-cutting ceremony and Grand Opening Celebration. Attendees enjoyed tours of the new facility as well as family-friendly activities, food, performances and…
Join the Fairfax County Department of Neighborhood and Community Services on Thursday, Sept. 29, 2022 from 5-7 p.m. at an open hire event. Apply and interview on the spot for Activity Facilitator andSACCDay Care Center Teacher and Day Care Center Assistant Teacher positions located at various Community…
The NOVA United Senior Women’s Basketball team, which practices twice weekly at James Lee Community Center in Falls Church, has brought home the gold! The team, made up of women ages 45 and over, won the…
September is National Senior Center Month, and the Department of Neighborhood and Community Services is celebrating our 14 Fairfax County Senior Centers, which cater to adults ages 50 and over.
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On July 18, 2022, the Fairfax County Department of Neighborhood and Community Services hosted a STEAM Summit at James Lee Community Center in Falls Church. The event, which attracted nearly 200 youth, was a collaboration between the Clubhouse Network and ...
Join the Fairfax County Department of Neighborhood and Community Services on Saturday, Sept.17, 2022 from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at an open hire event for the new Lorton Community Center. Apply and interview on the spot for Activity Facilitator and SACC Day Care Center Teacher and Day Care Center Assistant Teacher…
This summer, the Fairfax County Department of Neighborhood and Community Services partneredwith Arcadia, a nonprofit organization dedicated to creating a more equitable and sustainable local food system, to send youth to Arcadia Farm Camp. The camp, located at the famous…
National Hispanic Heritage Month is September 15 to October 15, 2022, and the Fairfax County Department of Neighborhood and Community Services is celebrating with events at several of our community centers. This month pays tribute to the generations of Hispanic Americans who have positively influenced and enriched our nation…
Members of the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, the Department of Neighborhood and Community Services, the Fairfax County Park Authority and local community leaders will celebrate the opening of the new Sully Community Center during a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Saturday, Sept. 17 at noon. The ceremony will be followed by the Sully Community Center ...
The Fairfax County Department of Neighborhood & Community Services is hosting Open Hire Events on Saturday, August 27 and Tuesday, August 30 to full multipleActivity Facilitator and SACC Day Care Center Teacher and Assistant Teacher positions at the new...
Do you live in Fairfax County and have a well, spring or cistern? Learn about your water quality through the statewide Virginia Household Water Quality Program. The Fairfax County Office of Virginia Cooperative Extension (VCE), within Fairfax County’s Department of Neighborhood & Community Services,…
The Fairfax County Department of Neighborhood & Community Services is hosting an Open Hire Event on Wednesday, August 31to fillmultiple Activity Facilitator andSACCDay Care Teacher positions located at various community centers and SACC program sites. Apply and interview on the spot for…
The Fairfax County Department of Neighborhood and Community Services and the Hybla Valley Community Center have partnered with Trek Bicycle Shop in Alexandria to offer a unique learning program for…
The Fairfax County Department of Neighborhood and Community Services and the Capital Area Food Bank have partnered to offer food distributions to communities in need in August. According to the Food Bank, one out of 10 residents of the metropolitan Washington region is food insecure – and nearly a third of them are…
The Fairfax County Department of Neighborhood & Community Services is hosting an Open Hire Event on Saturday, August 6 to fillmultiple Activity Facilitator and SACC Day Care Teacher positions located at various NCS and SACC program sites. Apply and interview on the spot for different positions.…
Two Fairfax County Neighborhood and Community Services Community Centers are among several sites offering free, ongoing COVID-19 testing to Fairfax County residents. This service is provided by Curative in partnership with the Fairfax County Health Department. No appointment or registration is necessary. ...
Held annually on the first Tuesday in August, National Night Out brings neighbors and law enforcement together at community events across the nation. This year, the Fairfax County Department of Neighborhood and Community Services (NCS)is celebrating National Night Out at two Community Centers.
The Cathy Hudgins…
Fairfax County’s Department of Neighborhood and Community Services (NCS) invites nonprofit safety net organizations to apply for a new round of grants funded through the federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). The pandemic and its lingering effects have negatively impacted nonprofits through reduced revenues, increased expenses and community need, and persistent staffing concerns. These grants…
Job seekers: Join the Department of Neighborhood & Community Services (NCS)and the Fairfax County Public Library onSaturday, July 23 or Tuesday, July 26atan Open Hire Event for the newLorton Community Center and Library. Apply and interview on site for multiple positions including School Age Child Care (SACC) Day Care Center Teacher, NCS Activity Facilitator, and Library Page. Please bring…
Fairfax County Neighborhood and Community Services (NCS) is hosting a series of Community Engagement Forums regarding the upcoming Community Center in Tysons. On May 3, 2022,the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, the Fairfax County Redevelopment and Housing Authority (FCRHA), Amazon, APAH and Virginia Housing joined to announce the commitment of...
In 2020 over 38 million Americans lived in households that struggled against food insecurity, or lack of access to an affordable, nutritious diet, according to the USDA. Additionally, 1 in 25 U.S. households experienced a more severe form of food insecurity where households report regularly…
Fairfax County is one of four Northern Virginia jurisdictions and one non-profit organization which have partnered to offer weekly virtual programming for older adults and adults with disabilities. Arlington County, Fairfax County, Prince William County, the Town of Vienna, and ServiceSource Inc. host live virtual programming on Zoom five days a week. The events range from…
On June 7, 2022, NCS recognized the recipients of the 2022 Juneteenth Resiliency Awards during the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors meeting. The student award winners received certificates, a copy of the Juneteenth Proclamation made by Chairman of the Board Jeffrey McKay, and a…
On Saturday, May 21 from 1-3 p.m., the Department of Neighborhood and Community Services and Workhouse Arts Center present Playback Theater at the ...
National Prevention Week (May 8-14, 2022) is a national public education platform bringing together communities and organizations to raise awareness about the importance of substance use prevention and positive mental health. This week, the Department of Neighborhood and Community Services is taking the opportunity to…
The Fairfax County Department of Neighborhood and Community Services has opened nominations for the 2022 Juneteenth Resiliency Awards. In recognition of Juneteenth, these awards recognize and celebrate Black resiliency in youth and young adults ages 13-21 who have exhibited true perseverance (also known as grit, determination, dedication and persistence) to strive towards…
On Saturday, May 7, community members gathered for a ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating the opening of the new Community Center in the Lee District. Located at 7950 Audubon Avenue, the center provides recreational activities, educational workshops and programs to residents in the Buckman Road area on the west side of Richmond Highway in Alexandria.
Speakers at the…
This community center will provide recreational activities, educational workshops and programs to residents and be the home of the Workforce Innovation and Skills Hub, a first of its kind County-sponsored workforce development program.
When & Where: Saturday, May 7, 2022, at 11 a.m.at 7950 Audubon Ave, Alexandria, VA.
Alexandria, VA – Members of the…
The Fairfax County Department of Neighborhood and Community Services’ Mount Vernon District Neighborhood College, a free eight-session certificate program, is now open for registration. Sponsored by Mount Vernon District Supervisor Dan Storck, this unique program is open to Mount Vernon District residents interested in learning about Fairfax County and the Mount Vernon…
National Nutrition Month is an annual campaign created by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. During the month of March, everyone is invited to learn about making informed food choices and developing healthful eating and physical activity habits.
The Department of…
February is International Recreational Therapy Month, which recognizes the role of therapeutic recreation in helping those with physical, developmental, emotional, and/or intellectual disabilities engage in the activities of their choice.
NCS is celebrating this month by recognizing our ...
To celebrate Black History Month, Fairfax County, in partnership with Cox Communications, will present a virtual Black History Program on Friday, Feb. 11 from 7-8 p.m.
Join community leaders, guest speakers and entertainers to explore the past, present and future and honor the Black Community in Fairfax County. Tilly Blanding, retired Fairfax County social worker, will again emcee the…
This month, Fairfax County Senior Center staff wrapped up “Knitting Communities Together” with their annual winter warming service project. The project, which kicked off in October, is a donation drive to collect new or handmade hats, gloves, mittens, scarves and socks for adults and children in Fairfax County. The items…
The Virginia Early Childhood Foundation has launched a transformative statewide network of Ready Regions that will bring all of the Commonwealth’s communities together to support early childhood success. We are pleased to share that the Fairfax County Office for Children, a division of Neighborhood and Community Services, has been selected to serve as the lead organization for the Ready Region…
The Fairfax County Department of Neighborhood and Community Services’ Braddock District Neighborhood College, a free seven-session certificate program, is now open for registration. Sponsored by Braddock District Supervisor James R. Walkinshaw, this unique program is open to Braddock District residents interested in learning about Fairfax County and the Braddock…
The Fairfax County Hypothermia Prevention Program for people experiencing homelessness begins onDecember 1, 2021. Since 2005, the program has prevented death and serious injuries among our most vulnerable residents by ensuring that no one must sleep outside during the winter months. This program…
On October 16, 2021, the Department of Neighborhood and Community Servicesheld a ceremony to officially commemorate the renaming of Southgate Community Center to the Cathy Hudgins Community Center at Southgate. The event took place in front of a standing-room-only crowdduring Southgate's annual Community Day, which included fun and games for area families.
Speakers included Hunter…
Southgate Community Center is being renamed in honor of Supervisor Catherine Hudgins, who retired from the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors at the end of 2019. The Fairfax County Board of Supervisors unanimously voted to rename Southgate after Ms. Hudgins following a May 4, 2021 Board Matter by Hunter Mill District Supervisor Walter Alcorn.
Located at 12125 Pinecrest Road in…
On Saturday, October 2, NCS held an unveiling ceremony to reveal Fairfax County's new historical marker commemorating the James Lee Elementary School, now the site of the James Lee Community Center, in Falls Church.The program included remarks by Gerry Connolly of the U.S. House of Representatives, Providence District Supervisor Dalia Palchik, Fairfax County Chief Equity Officer Karla Bruce,…
On Saturday, October 2, the Fairfax County Department of Neighborhood and Community Services will unveil a new historical marker at James Lee Community Center in Falls Church. The marker commemorates the James Lee Elementary School, which opened at the site of the Community Center in 1948.
The program for the unveiling ceremony includes remarks by…
On September 22, about 50 community members gathered for a ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating the opening of the South County Teen and Senior Centers at the Original Mount Vernon High School. Watch the "16 Around Fairfax" segment on the event…
On September 22, 2021, the Department of Neighborhood and Community Services, along with Supervisor Dan Storck and the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, will celebrate the opening of the South County Teen and Senior Centers during a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the Original Mount Vernon High School in Alexandria.
The ceremony begins at 5 p.m. with…
Fairfax County is seeking community volunteers to participate on a Selection Advisory Committee that will review and evaluate proposals and make recommendations on how to distribute funds to community partners that support Fairfax County residents. The funds are issued through the Consolidated Community Funding Pool, a competitive countywide grant program, and will go to…
Neighborhood and Community Services is proud to announce that Little River Glen Senior Center in Fairfax has completed SAGECare’s LGBT cultural competency training program and has earned the SAGECare Platinum credential. SAGE, which stands for Services and Advocacy for GLBT Elders, assists senior care agencies in creating fully…
Fairfax County will announce the winners of the inaugural Juneteenth Resiliency Award in a ceremony airing on Channel 16 on Juneteenth (Saturday, June 19) at 7 p.m. In recognition of Juneteenth, this award recognizes and celebrates Black resiliency in youth and young adults ages 13-21 who have…
Fairfax County is offering a new program called TOPS (Transportation Options, Programs & Services) that replaces the previous taxi voucher programs (Seniors On-The-Go!, TaxiAccess, and Dial-A-Ride). The streamlined program provides a transportation debit card in lieu of paper vouchers and offers more transportation options in addition to taxi services.
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Join us for “Tools 2 Thrive,” a virtual community discussion about mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual health within the black community that is being held in coordination with Mental Health Awareness Month. Taking place on Thursday, May 27, 2021 from 6-7:30 p.m. on Zoom, this session will address what individuals can do throughout their daily lives to prioritize mental health, build…
Are you interested in working with school age children in a fun, energetic and educational setting? TheSchool Age Child Care Program(SACC) program is hosting a virtual open hire event on May 25 and 26, 2021 to fill Teacher 1 positions (Day Care Center Teacher 1) with the...
NCS is excited to bring you a variety of camp options taking place in person this summer. Registration is now open for 2021 NCS Summer Camps, which run from June through August 2021. Summer camp programs include:
Camp Fairfax, for grades 1-7(rising). Culmore…
On March 10, 2021, Gum Springs Community Center in Alexandria held its annual Black History Month Celebration virtually via Zoom. The video is now available to watch in segments on Fairfax County’sYouTubechannel. In each segment, a Fairfax County resident portrays and tells the story of a notable African…
Fairfax County Neighborhood and Community Services (NCS) is hosting a series of Community Engagement Forums regarding the former Mount Vernon Athletic Club. Fairfax Countypurchased the facility in May 2020with plans to establish a multi-service center to meet the immediate needs of…
Coinciding with Older Americans Month in May, the Arts for Life Festival (previously known as the Creative Aging Festival) has been a cherished month-long celebration of the arts, transforming Fairfax County Senior Centers into hives of activity with classes and events that highlight the benefits of participating in the arts.
Although Senior Centers remain closed due to the COVID-19…
Fairfax County Office for Children has been awarded the Child Development Associate (CDA) Gold Standard by the Council for Professional Recognition. The Fairfax County Office for Children works in partnership with families, educators, and community organizations as well as other partners…
Fairfax County Department of Neighborhood and Community Services’ Therapeutic Recreation Services is now hiring to fill more than 100 positions for its six-week summer camp program for school-aged youth with varying disabilities. Therapeutic Recreation (TR) Services is hosting a series of eight…
When NCS Senior Centers closed in March 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, NCS, DFS and other HHS staff pivoted to meet the immediate needs of older adults – they began delivering weekly meals to participants who would typically eat their meals at Senior Centers. Now, over one year later, NCS staff have delivered over 500,000 meals through the program.
Jennae Asborno, Operations…
Every day, hundreds of local residents lose their hard-earned money to a variety of fraud schemes. In fact, every two seconds, a con artist steals someone’s identity!...
February isInternational Recreational Therapy Month. You may be wondering, “What is a recreational therapist, anyway?” The answer is simple: Recreational therapists utilize recreation in creative ways to help improve the lives of individuals with disabilities.
In Fairfax County,...
The Office for Children’s Grapevine newsletter for staff and friends is here. This issue includes articles about OFC staff serving on theTransition Team, Early Childhood Educators exploring the benefits of outdoor play during virtual book chats, CLASS Going virtual to support positive educator-child interactions and more.
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The Office for Children congratulates Fairfax Futures for being a first-time grant recipient of the John & Janice Wyatt Foundation. This multi-year grant award will directly support the Fairfax County Equitable School Readiness Strategic Plan by supporting two initiatives: 1) Promoting the Use of Developmental and Social Emotional Screeners Among Early Childhood Programs to Support School…
On January 30 and February 6, Stuff the Bus held food drives at 21 locations throughout Fairfax County and the City of Fairfax to collect nonperishable food donations for area food pantries. The drives were a resounding success, resulting in 33 tons of food, surpassing the 27.6 tons donated during the previous Stuff the Bus food drives in September 2020.
Credit for the successful…
February is Black History Month (also calledAfrican…
Fairfax County’s Sully District Neighborhood College, a free seven-session civic engagement program, is now open for registration. Sponsored by Sully District Supervisor Kathy Smith, this unique program is open to Sully District residents interested in learning about Fairfax County and the Sully District.
Through lectures, group discussions and practical experiences, participants…
In celebration of Black History Month, Fairfax County, in partnership with Cox Communications, proudly presents the first virtual Black History Program, taking place on Friday, Feb. 19 at 7-8:00 p.m.
Explore black history in Fairfax County and honor black perseverance and resiliency through speakers and entertainment. Tilly Blanding, retired Fairfax County social worker, will emcee…
Stuff the Bus began in 2011 in response to a critical need to help restock the shelves of local food pantries after the holidays. This collaborative program, now in its 10th year, is a partnership between Fairfax County Government and local nonprofits. Since it began, Stuff the Bus…
NCSTherapeutic Recreation Servicesprovides opportunities for children and adults with disabilities to develop the skills that enable them to participate in the recreation and leisure programs of their choice. When the team’s in-person programs had to be cancelled due to COVID-19 last year, they…
What began as a service project at one NCS Senior Center last year has evolved into a full-scale campaign with several centers, nonprofits, a youth volunteer group, and a business participating. The project began in 2019-20, when Pimmitt Hills Senior Center Assistant DirectorKathy Friessaw a need and began collecting hats, gloves/mittens, and scarves to get adults and children through the…
On Monday, December 14, a virtual reception was held to honor the 2020 recipients of the Martha Glennan Disability Inclusion and Equality Award. Awarded by the Fairfax Area –…
Since May, the Fairfax County Department of Neighborhood and Community Services’ Virtual Center for Active Adults, in partnership with ServiceSource, has offered a wide range of classes and programs for older adults every week via Zoom. The VCAA’s classes have traditionally been offered only during the day, but an exciting new partnership with the community-based organization Quarantine Music…
The latest episode of Gathering STEAM, an NCS-led course for Fairfax County Public Schools students in grades 7-12, focuses on an opportunity for students to get involved in the Clubhouse Network’sGlobal RE@CH Media Festival.
The festival encourages youth to create media that describe their personal experiences and gives voice to their…
In October, NCS and the Office for Children teamed up with theCommunity Emergency Response Teamto distribute tissues, toilet paper, disinfectant spray, paper towels and other cleaning products to child care providers.
The distribution took place October 13-15 at Lincolnia…
Construction on the new Sully Community Center in Chantilly is underway!Watch this videoto get an update on construction as well as the services and features of the facility.
The 36,000-square-foot Sully Community Center will serve as a multi-generational facility for the…
Fairfax County’sConsolidated Community Funding Poolis an allocation of funds earmarked by the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors to be administered to local nonprofits and community-based organizations as an investment in programs…
In a new partnership, the Fairfax County Department of Neighborhood and Community Services and Fairfax County Public Schools have teamed up to offer Gathering STEAM, an asynchronous course for students in grades 7-12. Each course explores a topic in science, technology, engineering, arts, or math and engages students in an entertaining television show…
To help fill the food pantries of area nonprofits, Stuff the Bus held food drives on two Saturdays in September. On both days, buses were parked at 21 locations throughout the county, including many Board of Supervisors’ offices, Fairfax County Public Schools and the Fairfax County Government Center. On Saturdays, these are less-frequented locations which allowed donors to comply with social…
Since the launch of the Virtual Center for Active Adults in May, older adults and adults with disabilities have enjoyed the 30+ programs and classes offered weekly by senior center staff. The popularity of the classes has led to requests for additional programs and classes on a variety of topics. To meet the demand, the VCAA is launching a second Zoom account starting October 5.
The…
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Department of Neighborhood and Community Services is offering two programs to support parents/guardians and students in distance learning.
Parent Connect provides in-person services for parents and guardians at NCS Community Centers and other community locations. Assistance includes support related to…
Each year, influenza—better known as the flu—causes millions of illnesses in the United States, and people age 65 and older account for the majority of flu hospitalizations and deaths. An annual flu vaccine is the best way to reduce your risk of getting sick.
To help protect older adults in our community, the Fairfax County…
On September 16, First Lady of Virginia Pamela Northam visited Fairfax County to recognize the important work of early childhood educators as part of her annual Back to School tour. She toured three sites and delivered hand sanitizer, face coverings and books to educators. First Lady Northam’s tour began at Office for Children Early Head Start provider Leticia Flores-Ortiz’s…
On Saturday, September 12, buses were parked at 21 locations throughout the county to collect nonperishable food donations for area nonprofits through the Stuff the Bus food drive. Over five hours, Fairfax County residents donated 11 tons of food to help feed hungry people throughout the county.
“We are so thankful for the generosity of our Fairfax County community. This is the second…
Do you know what’s in your drinking water? While public water supplies are tested daily for contaminants, most private water supplies, like wells and springs, are rarely tested. It is recommended that well owners test their water at least annually for bacteria and nitrates. Fairfax County residents can learn more about the quality of their water and how to care for their water system as part of…
For the past nine years, Stuff the Bus has held food drives twice a year during times when donations often drop off – after the winter holidays and during the summer. Hosting drives during these critical times ensured that area nonprofits were able to meet the needs of hungry people…
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Fairfax County Office for Children is offering two webinar series to support early childhood educators, children and families during COVID-19 and in the virtual return to school.
In July and August, more than 400 early…
Fairfax County, the Lorton Community Action Center (LCAC) and the community celebrated construction of the new Lorton Community Center and Lorton Library with a groundbreaking ceremony on Aug. 22. Located at 9520 Richmond Highway, the project includes a complete renovation of the existing 10,000-square-foot library with 6,000 square feet of new…
Supporting Return to School (SRS)is a new Fairfax County program developed in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and this year’s virtual return to school. The program will provide full-day on-site programming for children in Kindergarten through sixth grade, Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. – 6 p.m. The SRS program reflects the County’s and Fairfax County Public…
As the COVID-19 pandemic has reframed what is considered normal life in our community and the world at large, it has also radically altered the way NCS and their Health and Human Services partner agencies respond to meet the needs of older adults in Fairfax County.
When Senior Centers closed in March to stem the spread of the COVID-19 virus, NCS staff, along with staff from other HHS…
The Department of Neighborhood and Community Services is now on Twitter! We are excited to offer this new way for residents to connect with our Community, Teen and Senior Centers. Follow us to see daily updates on virtual events and services for youth, teens, older adults, and individuals with disabilities, plus opportunities to engage with your peers and join live…
Openings are available for Camp Fairfax, which has been extended through Friday, August 14. This five-week summer program is for rising first- through sixth-grade children of working families and runs from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Camp Fairfax is available at 18 locations across the county, including seven NCS Community Centers and 11 Fairfax County Public Schools. A…
NCS was one of several Fairfax County organizations to support a collaborative food distribution event in the Sully District on June 15. Human Services Transportation provided Fastran buses for the four-hour drive-through event, which was organized by the…
As Fairfax County moves into Phase Three of the Forward Virginia plan and gradually reopens facilities to the public, here’s what you need to know about Neighborhood and Community Services (NCS):
NCS will be providing an abbreviated summer program for rising first- through sixth-grade children of working…
The Fairfax County Department of Neighborhood and Community Services is excited to announce that registration is now open for #NCSconnects Virtual Summer Camp – a FREE out-of-school time program for students in grades 1-6 and 7-12. This new four-week program is being offered as an alternative to the RECQuest and Teens in Action programs, which were cancelled due to COVID-19.
The…
The Office for Children is seeking donations to support child care programs countywide in providing essential services to children and families. Donated supplies will support healthy hygiene practices and help child care centers and family child care programs maintain a clean and healthy environment.
Specifically, OFC is seeking these essential supplies:
Hand…
The Fairfax County Department of Neighborhood and Community Services, in partnership with Fairfax County Public Schools, is excited to host the annual Value in Prevention (V.I.P) summer camp program virtually from June 29 through July 30, 2020.
The five-week summer camp for rising seventh-, eighth- and ninth grade students will engage youth in both…
The Fairfax County Department of Neighborhood and Community Services, in partnership with Lee District Supervisor Rodney Lusk, DeLune Corp, and community-based organizations, are holding free food distribution events every Thursday in June.
These drive-thru events allow for contact-free distribution of one week’s worth of fresh dairy, milk and produce. No eligibility is required, but…
The Fairfax County Park Authority (FCPA), Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) and the Department of Neighborhood and Community Services (NCS) are announcing the reopening of outdoor athletic fields in Fairfax County for unpermitted use on Friday, May 29, as part of ...
On May 15, the NCS Youth Programming Team – made up of staff members from NCS Community Centers and Teen Centers – launched ...
The Fairfax County Park Authority (FCPA) and the Department of Neighborhood and Community Services (NCS) are announcing the cancellation of 2020 summer camp programs due to the COVID-19 crisis.
Included in these cancellations are all FCPA sponsored summer camp programs, REC-Pac programs held at local schools, summer camp programs sponsored by NCS and SACC programs.…
As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, many individuals and families in Fairfax County are in need of food support. To help meet this increasing need for assistance, the Fairfax County Department of Neighborhood and Community Services (NCS) partnered with residents and local nonprofit organizations to hold two special “Stuff the Bus” donation events in May.
Though ...
Since COVID-19 physical distancing guidelines were implemented in March, the NCS Infant and Toddler Connection of Fairfax-Falls Church (ITC) has gone above and beyond to continue supporting its 1,400+ families through telepractice/virtual services. The month of May also happens to be ...
With the help of F.A.S.T (Fairfax Athletes Stand Together), the Fairfax County athletic community is doing its part to ease hunger during COVID-19 by facilitating food donation to area pantries. F.A.S.T is a collaborative network of government organizations (like NCS), community nonprofits and athletic…
The Fairfax County Redevelopment and Housing Authority (FCRHA) has purchased the closed Mount Vernon Athletic Club – a more than 50,000 square-foot indoor tennis facility located on 5.3 acres – as a first step toward enhancing needed programs and services for the communities in the Buckman Road area on the west side of Richmond Highway in Mount Vernon.
The FCRHA is currently…
Fears about the coronavirus (COVID-19) can take an emotional toll on people. You may be feeling scared, overwhelmed and in need of comfort. To provide support during these unique times, the Fairfax County Spiritual Support Team is now offeringspiritual support by telephone for adults aged 18 and overin our community.
If you would like to speak with a member of the…
On Saturday, February 29, the NCS Co-ed Intramural Basketball League wrapped up its fifth season with its semifinal and championship games. One of the two teams representing South County Teen Center beat Reston Teen Center by two points in the championship game. Throughout the 10-week season, eight youth teams comprised of teen and community center participants enjoyed the chance to play and…
Did you know that some 83 percent of low- and moderate-income adults age 50 and older are struggling with at least some aspect of their financial lives? In fact, according to a 2019 AARP Foundation report, just 17 percent of seniors are “financially healthy.”
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Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States – but it doesn’t have to be. Each February, the National Institutes for Health celebrates American Heart Month by providing tips to prevent heart disease. This year, ...
February is Black History Month (also called African American History Month), a national tribute recognizing the achievements of African Americans throughout history, and NCS is joining the celebration with special events at our Community Centers, Senior Centers and Teen Centers.
The below-freezing temperatures in Fairfax on Tuesday, January 21 didn’t stop residents from lining up bright and early in front of the Mott Community Center. They were there to register for the winter session of the Burke/West Springfield Senior Center Without…
There’s a lot going on at the Herndon Senior Center, including a new weekend pilot program called the 50+ Weekend Clubhouse. As of January 3, the center began staying open an additional four hours (through 8 p.m.) on Fridays and Saturdays to accommodate members who work during the day.
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Light, color, texture, sound, fragrance, motion… These can all be used to calm or arouse the senses. They are also core elements in the Sensory Room, a unique therapeutic space at Providence Community Center in Fairfax. Opened in 2015, the room is dedicated to Deputy County Executive Patricia D. Harrison, who played a key role in its inception.
As…
The buses are fueled and ready to roll as Stuff the Bus – the county’s post-holiday food drive, now in its ninth year – hits the road in the fight against hunger in Fairfax County.
Throughout the month of February, Stuff the Bus will visit local grocery stores…
In 2020, registered members of Fairfax County Senior Centers will see new monthly themes and a cohesive focus across all locations. Fairfax County is home to many older adults, and county agencies are always looking for ways to meet the needs of a far more active, engaged and mobile…
First Lady Pamela Northam Visits Office for Children Family Child Care Partner
On December 10, Virginia Governor Ralph Northam and First Lady Pamela Northam announced that hisproposed budget will include $94.8 million in new funding for early childhood care and…
The Herndon Senior Center wants to help make your weekend count! Starting January 3, 2020, the center will stay open an additional four hours (through 8 p.m.) on Fridays and Saturdays to accommodate members who work during the day. Herndon is one of 14 Senior Centers in Fairfax…
Registration Open for Sharing Shoes Basketball Clinic on December 1
For the second year, F.A.S.T., short for Fairfax Athletes Stand Together, is partnering with non-profit Sharing Shoes to collect new and gently used sneakers for local athletes. This…
Older adults and technology don’t exactly go hand in hand – or do they? According to Jacqueline Rich, NCS Information Technology Educator, it’s a common misconception that seniors are afraid to use technology.
Rich, who teaches technology courses at the county’s 14 Senior Centers, recently discussed her thoughts with host Jim Person on Fairfax 50+, the county’s podcast series for…
The National Association for County Community and Economic Development (NACCED) has selected Lewinsville Center as the 2019 Award of Excellence recipient. Located in McLean, Virginia, the Lewinsville Center project included the redevelopment of the 8.66-acre site of the original Lewinsville…
The Fairfax County Master Gardeners ushered in 21 new Master Gardener graduates and gave out milestone awards at the 2019 Fall Membership Meeting & Awards Ceremony on October 16. The awards included a special surprise Certificate of Appreciation recognizing Adria Bordas, Unit Coordinator and Senior Extension Agent - Horticulture, for her 18 years of service to the ...
In partnership with Fairfax County Public Libraries and One Fairfax, NCS is co-sponsoring “Chat and Chew,” a speaker series on race and social equity. The series stemmed from the Food Equity Summit held in May 2019 and serves as a broader platform to engage and educate the community about how race and social inequities are impacting…
Most learning during childhood is visual, and healthy vision is critical to success in the classroom. Yet, one in 20 preschoolers – and one in four school-age children – is affected by vision problems, according to Prevent Blindness America. Despite that, the…
Join the Department of Neighborhood and Community Services for our second annual Fall Festival at Ox Hill Baptist Church in Chantilly! This event is FREE to the community and offers lots of information, exhibits and fun for the whole family. Co-sponsored by NCS in partnership with Ox Hill Baptist Church, Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Washington, and Pohanka Acura.
Can you run 1,600 meters in under seven minutes? Springfield resident Joanne Shabelski can – and she’s got a gold medal to prove it. At 58 years young, Shabelski placed first in her age group at the 2019 Northern Virginia Senior Olympics (NVSO), and even achieved a new women’s record for the 1,600-meter run event. Her time of 6:59 is the fastest in her age group since NVSO began tracking…
The Lincolnia Senior Center recently hosted an inaugural International Friendship Day program. The program was the brainchild of Danilo “Danny” Lunaria and his wife Milagros “Mila.” Seeking ideas for a summer event at the center, the Lunarias were inspired by the International Day of Friendship. First proclaimed by the U.N. in 2011, this annual event was created with the goal of uniting people…
Fairfax County Senior Centers and ARTSFAIRFAX arepreparing to launch anArtist Residency program that will offer more in depth creative aging opportunities for Fairfax County's 50+ community. The newprogram is an off-shoot program from the annual Creative Aging Festival which celebrates the…
More than 56,000 residents in Fairfax County experience food insecurity, not having access to nutritious food on any given day.
* Data from Feeding America
Each year, when the academic year ends and kids no longer receive school meals, local food pantries struggle to keep the shelves stocked as individuals andfamilies in need search for even…
In homes across the county, children and teens are preparing for finals, SOLs, prom, graduation and more! Yes, summer is coming, and it will be here before you know it!
For many nonprofits the ability to author a winning grant proposal is a skill of paramount importance. Do you know what funders are looking for in a winning proposal? Can you craft a compelling and captivating story that illustrates the value and impact your services and/or programs provide? Are you aware of the common mistakes that sink grant proposals?
In an effort to answer…
The Fairfax County Department of Neighborhood and Community Services (NCS) and program partner, ServiceSource, Inc., received Honorable Mention from the 2019 Commonwealth Council on Aging's Best Practices Awards Selection Committee in recognition of their transformative Senior Center Inclusion Services. These services provide needed supports to…
Therapeutic Recreation Services offers a variety of affordable summer camp experiences for individuals(ages 2to 22)with developmental, intellectual, physical, emotional and learning disabilities to enjoy a variety of special events, games, activities, sports, field trips, musical activities and much more!
Spring Break is just around the corner - and it'll be here before you know it! Make your plans today for your kids and teens to have a fun and fulfilling experience this spring.
Registration is now open for RECQuest (students in 1st - 6th grade) and ...
Have you ever gotten lost in the pages of a good book? Has your imagination taken flight? Have you learned something new or have you developed a new interest through reading?
Today, community centers across Fairfax County are providingreaders of all ages with a way to find access to and share books among their neighbors to inspire a love of reading and to reap the long-term…
The buses are fueled and ready to roll as the county’s post-holiday food drive—Stuff the Bus—hits the road in the fight against hunger in Fairfax County.
From Martin Luther King weekend through Presidents Day, Stuff the Bus will visit several local grocery stores to collect donated food and household items that will be delivered to community-based non-profit food pantries…
November 7, 2018 - 'Tis the season of giving; and the chances are, families and residents across the county will be involved in a number of charitable efforts this holiday season. One way Fairfax County residents participate in giving back is through donating food and other household items to local food pantries and other non-profit organizations who specialize in providing these items to those…
Fairfax County is seeking public input in an effort to validate community priorities for committing county funds to address human services needs. The county’s Consolidated Community Funding Pool (CCFP) is an allocation of funds earmarked by the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors to be administered to local nonprofits and community-based organizations as an investment in programs…
Fairfax County was announced as one of four national recipients of a partnership grant aimed at developing some of the nation’s first Outcomes Rate Cards—an innovative “pay-for-performance” approach to social contracting and financing which incentivizes the achievement of desired outcomes. As a recipient of this unique partnership opportunity, the Department of Neighborhood and Community…
It’s no fun being sick. Through years of experience, most adults understand that dealing with pain, discomfort, fatigue, frailties and fear can be among life’s most daunting challenges. When it comes to children, those challenges can be compounded with limited understanding and a difficulty to express the thoughts and emotions that are, no doubt, swirling inside.
For more than…
Forget driver’s education, Fairfax County Neighborhood and Community Services’ (NCS) Aviation Camp, has teens cleared for takeoff!
The week-long camp, made possible in partnership with Danielle Blunt Craddock of Girls Inspired and Ready to Lead (GIRL) and led by Retired Rear Admiral Arthur Johnson, provided an interactive opportunity for more than a dozen teens from the…
Teens from the Bailey’s, Reston and Willston Clubhouses received international acclaim for their video “Dating Abuse Stops Here!” at the Clubhouse Network’s Global RE@CH Media…
